Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with our decadent Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars! These delightful treats combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the comforting flavors of caramel and apple. Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or simply satisfying your sweet cravings, these bars are sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a dessert that will leave everyone asking for more!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
– 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Apple Layer:
– 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Caramel Drizzle:
– 1/2 cup store-bought caramel sauce
– Sea salt flakes (optional, for garnish)
Cooking Process:
Step 1: Preparing the Crust
- 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- 2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- 3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Making the Cheesecake Filling
- 1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- 2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until incorporated.
- 3. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it into an even layer.
Step 3: Preparing the Apple Layer
- 1. In a skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon.
- 2. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until the apples are tender and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- 3. Spread the cooked apple mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.
Step 4: Baking and Cooling
- 1. Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- 2. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill and firm up.
Step 5: Adding the Caramel Drizzle
- 1. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the chilled cheesecake bars.
- 2. Optionally, sprinkle sea salt flakes over the caramel for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Garnishing:
– For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the top of the caramel apple cheesecake bars with additional caramel sauce swirls or apple slices.
Notes and Helpful Tips:
1. Room temperature ingredients: Ensure that the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth cheesecake filling.
2. Even baking: To ensure even baking, rotate the baking pan halfway through the baking time.
3. Cooling and chilling: Allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely before adding the caramel drizzle to prevent it from melting. Chilling the bars in the refrigerator helps to set the cheesecake filling and makes it easier to slice into neat bars.
4. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
With these simple steps and helpful tips, you’ll be able to create irresistible Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars that are perfect for any occasion!